What to Do After a Car Accident in London, Ontario: A Step-by-Step Guide
No one plans to have a car accident. Whether you're navigating the busy intersection of Fanshawe Park Road and Richmond Street in Masonville or commuting along the 401 toward White Oaks, a collision is a stressful experience that can leave even the most seasoned driver feeling overwhelmed.
In London, Ontario, knowing the right steps to take immediately following an accident is crucial—not just for your safety, but also for legal compliance and insurance purposes. This guide walks you through exactly what to do, where to go, and how to protect your rights as a driver in the Forest City.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Collision
First and foremost, stay calm. Take a deep breath. Your priority is the safety of everyone involved.
- Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and your passengers. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
- Move to Safety: If the vehicles are drivable and it is safe to do so, move them out of the path of traffic. If you're on a high-speed route like Highway 402 or Veterans Memorial Parkway, use your hazard lights and set up flares or triangles if you have them.
- Turn Off the Ignition: This helps prevent fire risk.
- Remain at the Scene: Never leave the scene of an accident, as this can lead to criminal charges.
Do I Need to Call the Police for a Minor Car Accident in Ontario?
One of the most common questions Londoners ask after a "fender bender" in areas like Westmount or Byron is whether they need to involve the police. In Ontario, you are required to call the police to the scene of an accident if:
- The total damage to all vehicles and property appears to be more than $2,000.
- Anyone is injured.
- The accident involves a government vehicle, a pedestrian, or a cyclist.
- One of the drivers appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- There is damage to private, municipal, or highway property (like guardrails on Hwy 3).
If none of these apply, the police may instruct you to visit the Collision Reporting Centre instead.
Where is the London Ontario Collision Reporting Centre?
If the police do not attend the scene, you must report the accident yourself. The London Collision Reporting Centre is located at:
1001 Sandford Street, London, ON N5V 2J8
You should bring your vehicle (if it can be safely driven or towed), your driver's license, vehicle permit, and insurance information. Reporting the accident ensures you have an official record, which is vital for insurance claims.
How Long Do I Have to Report a Car Accident in Ontario?
In Ontario, you are legally required to report a collision to a Collision Reporting Centre within 24 hours. Failing to do so can result in fines or issues with your insurance coverage. Even if the damage seems minor while you're parked at the Cherryhill Village Mall, internal damage can be expensive, and a report protects you later.
Collecting Information at the Scene
While waiting for assistance or preparing to head to Sandford Street, gather as much information as possible:
- Other Driver Info: Name, address, phone number, driver's license number, and insurance details (company and policy number).
- Vehicle Info: Make, model, year, and license plate number.
- Witnesses: If anyone saw the accident in Hyde Park or Lambeth, get their contact information.
- Photos: Take pictures of the damage to all vehicles, the surrounding area, and any relevant road signs or signals.
Can I Choose Which Towing Company to Use After an Accident?
Yes. In Ontario, you have the right to choose which towing company handles your vehicle. Under the Towing and Storage Safety and Enforcement Act, tow truck operators must:
- Provide you with a "Consent to Tow" form before starting.
- Display their rates clearly.
- Tow your vehicle to the location of your choice (your home, your preferred mechanic, or the Collision Reporting Centre).
If you are involved in an accident, don't feel pressured by "chase trucks" that happen to arrive first. You can call a trusted local provider like EmsTowing at (226) 476-4176 to ensure your vehicle is handled professionally and transported to the right location. Whether you need highway recovery from the 401 or a simple tow from a residential street in Oakridge, you are in control.
How Do I Get My Car Out of the Impound Lot in London, Ontario?
If your vehicle was towed to a storage lot or impound because of an accident or a police-ordered tow, you'll need to act quickly to avoid daily storage fees.
- Locate Your Vehicle: Confirm which lot it was taken to.
- Bring Documentation: You will need your driver's license, proof of ownership, and insurance.
- Pay the Fees: You are responsible for towing and storage costs. Most reputable companies accept multiple forms of payment.
- Inspect the Vehicle: Before driving away, check for any new damage.
Why Choose EmsTowing for Post-Accident Support?
At EmsTowing, we understand that an accident is more than just a mechanical failure; it's a stressful life event. We've been serving the London community—from the north end in Masonville to the south end in White Oaks—with reliable, honest towing services.
Our team specializes in:
- Highway Recovery for those tricky spots on the 401 and 402.
- Damage-free towing for luxury vehicles and daily drivers alike.
- Assistance with car lockouts if your keys were lost in the chaos.
- Regional support in St. Thomas and Woodstock.
If your car is still drivable but you're worried about a dead battery from sitting with hazard lights on, we also offer a battery boost service to get you back on your way. For more answers to common questions, check out our FAQ page.
Contact Us 24/7
If you've been in an accident in London, Ontario, and need a tow you can trust, call EmsTowing at (226) 476-4176. We're here to help you get through the stress and get your vehicle where it needs to go.